A MAN had just returned home when four men demanded the keys to his bike before assaulting him.

The 34-year-old victim was approached by the gang at around 11.25pm on Monday night on Telford Road. The man refused to hand over his keys and was punched repeatedly to the head and body.

He fell to the ground and the group made off with his keys.

Detective Constable Caroline Niblock said: “The victim suffered some painful injuries to his face and head, but did not require treatment at hospital.

“Nevertheless, he was left understandably shaken and upset by this assault and the theft of his belongings. Anyone who can help us trace those responsible is asked to contact police immediately.”

The suspects are all described as being white, between 14 and 20 years old, wearing grey and dark-coloured tracksuits with hoods or scarves obscuring their faces. They all spoke with local accents.

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. More than 1000 cars have been stolen or broken into across north Edinburgh in recent months. Earlier this year police placed extra officers on the streets to combat the crime.